WildAid Survey Highlights Significant Reduction in Shark Fin Consumption in Thailand
A recent survey by WildAid reveals a promising trend: Thailand’s shark fin consumption has declined by 34% over the past six years, translating to an estimated 8.1 million fewer servings of shark fin annually. This decline is indicative of successful awareness campaigns and changing attitudes towards shark fin consumption. However, demand remains significant, with more than half (56%) of urban Thais still expressing a desire to try shark fin, highlighting the ongoing challenges in shark conservation efforts.
Survey Methodology and Key Findings
Conducted by Rapid Asia in 2023, the survey aimed to assess changes in consumption behavior, attitudes, and knowledge towards sharks since 2017. The online survey gathered data from 1,007 urban Thais aged 25 and older from various regions. Key findings include:
Decline in Consumption: 21% of respondents had consumed shark fin in the past year, down from 29% in 2017. This represents a 28% reduction, despite an increase in the urban population.
Reduced Frequency: Annual consumption dropped from 23.9 million servings in 2017 to 15.7 million in 2023.
Shift in Occasional Consumers: 47% of occasional consumers (those consuming 2-5 times a year) reduced their intake to once a year or less.
Consumption Occasions: Shark fin is most commonly consumed at family gatherings in restaurants (60%), weddings (57%), and with friends in restaurants (46%). Home consumption increased, likely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Impact of Awareness Campaigns
WildAid’s ‘Chalong Mai Chalarm’ or ‘Celebrate with #NoSharkFin’ campaign has been instrumental in reducing shark fin demand. Launched in 2018, the campaign features prominent Thai celebrities, such as actor Nawat Kulrattanarak and Miss Universe Thailand 2017 Maria Poonlertlarp, who advocate against shark fin consumption. These campaigns have significantly raised awareness about the detrimental effects of shark finning on marine ecosystems. In 2023, 88% of survey respondents acknowledged the ecological importance of sharks, up from 68% in 2017.
Shark Guardian’s Role in Education and Awareness
Since 2008, Shark Guardian has been pivotal in promoting shark conservation in Thailand. Shark Guardian educational programs have targeted schools and communities, raising awareness about the shark fin trade and its impact on shark populations. These efforts have contributed to the declining trend in shark fin consumption and have supported broader conservation campaigns.
Challenges and Future Directions
Despite the progress, challenges remain. The survey indicates a potential rise in shark meat consumption, with one in three urban Thais expressing curiosity about trying it. This trend aligns with global findings that shark fishing mortality has increased, driven by growing demand for shark meat and non-fin products.
WildAid and Shark Guardian continue to advocate for stronger regulatory measures and increased public awareness. They emphasize the need for:
Implementing the National Plan of Actions for Conservation and Management of Sharks (NPOA-Sharks) in Thailand.
Improving fisheries management to reduce shark bycatch.
Enhancing traceability of shark products.
Protecting critical shark habitats.
Petch Manopawitr, Conservation Scientist and Advisor to WildAid, stresses the importance of these measures in ensuring the survival of vulnerable shark populations.
Conclusion
The decline in shark fin consumption in Thailand is a positive step towards shark conservation. Ongoing efforts by organizations like WildAid and Shark Guardian are crucial in maintaining this momentum. Public awareness and regulatory actions must continue to evolve to address the persistent demand and emerging challenges in shark conservation.
For more information on WildAid’s campaigns and how you can contribute, visit WildAid. Learn more about Shark Guardian’s educational initiatives at Shark Guardian.
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